Crni Rižot s Jadranskim Lignjama (Adriatic Cuttlefish/Squid & White Wine Risotto) – Authentic Croatia Recipe

Signature dish of every Dalmatian konoba tavern: creamy Adriatic seafood risotto rich with garlic and wine.

Country of Origin
🇭🇷 Croatia (Southern Europe, Europe)
Dietary Profile
pescatarian
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
30 min
Difficulty
Medium
Signature Staples
Tender squid/calamari rings and shrimp, Arborio rice, Grated Parmesan and lemon, Dalmatian white wine, Garlic

Ingredients for Crni Rižot s Jadranskim Lignjama (Adriatic Cuttlefish/Squid & White Wine Risotto) (4 Servings)

  • 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) tender squid/calamari rings and shrimp, prepped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1.5 cups Arborio rice, washed and trimmed
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan and lemon
  • 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with Dalmatian white wine
  • 1.5 tbsp traditional Croatia seasoning (garlic, flat-leaf parsley, extra virgin olive oil)
  • 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet over medium heat; sauté the onion, garlic, and Dalmatian white wine until golden.
  2. Add garlic, flat-leaf parsley, extra virgin olive oil along with tender squid/calamari rings and shrimp and Arborio rice, searing for 4–5 minutes to build savory depth.
  3. Stir in the rinsed grains/rice so every grain is coated in the spiced oil, then pour in warm stock.
  4. Bring to a simmer, cover tightly with a lid, and cook on low heat for 18–20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and tender.
  5. Rest off the heat for 5 minutes, fluff gently with a fork, and garnish with grated Parmesan and lemon.

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